Dehydration

Dehydration might not seem like a significant health concern, but it can lead to just-as-severe injuries, from cramping to life-threatening conditions. That’s why the medical staff at Ringside Health in Wellington, Florida, offers treatments at their on-site clinics in the equestrian community. They have the expertise to hydrate your body quickly so that you can maintain good health. Reach out to the Ringside Health team now to learn more. They can meet with you at their office or via telehealth to provide a personalized plan to rehydrate your body quickly. Call or book online today.

What are the symptoms of dehydration?

Dehydration occurs when the body loses more fluids than it takes in, resulting in a lack of the water needed to carry out normal functions.

Symptoms include:

• Thirst
• Dark urine
• Fatigue
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Dry skin
• Headache
• Decreased urination
• Rapid heartbeat and breathing

Severe dehydration also affects your mental clarity and mood, causing you to feel confused or irritable.

Why is dehydration dangerous to my health?

Dehydration is dangerous because it hinders your body’s ability to complete essential functions. Water is vital for regulating body temperature, maintaining blood pressure, and aiding digestion.

Severe dehydration leads to just-as-severe health problems. For example, you might experience heat injuries ranging from mild cramps to life-threatening heatstroke. Prolonged dehydration can cause kidney problems like stones, urinary tract infections (UTIs), and kidney failure.

Electrolyte imbalances from dehydration can trigger seizures, and, in extreme cases, you could suffer from hypovolemic shock, a life-threatening condition due to low blood volume, which drops blood pressure and oxygen levels. In the most severe scenarios, dehydration results in multiple organ failure and death.

What causes dehydration?

Dehydration results from various things, including:

• Inadequate fluid intake
• Illness (conditions causing vomiting, diarrhea, and/or fever)
• Excessive sweating (from physical activity, hot weather, or fever)
• Chronic conditions (like diabetes) that can cause frequent urination and fluid loss

It’s also possible for some medication to increase urination, resulting in dehydration.

How is dehydration treated?

The Ringside Health team treats dehydration by replenishing lost fluids and electrolytes. In mild cases, drinking water or oral rehydration solutions might suffice. For more severe dehydration, treatments include:

IV therapy

IV therapy delivers fluids directly into your bloodstream, quickly restoring hydration and electrolyte balance. This method is particularly effective for severe dehydration or when oral rehydration isn’t possible due to vomiting or unconsciousness.

Medication management

This treatment includes antiemetics to control vomiting, antidiarrheals, and medication to manage underlying conditions causing dehydration. Your provider might also administer electrolyte solutions to restore balance.

Prompt rehydration is necessary to avoid complications and ensure a quick recovery from dehydration.

To learn more about the importance of staying hydrated and how to treat dehydration, call or book a telehealth appointment online today.